NEWS & UPDATES

As we close the second quarter of 2026, I have found myself reflecting on one recurring theme across every project we have had the privilege to support: meaningful impact rarely happens in isolation. It is built through collaboration, shared purpose, and the courage (!) to rethink how people connect with ideas, creativity, and one another. This quarter has been particularly exciting for us, both as an agency and personally. I was honoured to join the Board of Swiss art-tech venture ARTENA, following a relationship that began through the Talent Kick programme. Watching founders transform ambitious ideas into meaningful solutions is one of the most rewarding aspects of working within the creative industries, and ARTENA's commitment to making art more accessible perfectly reflects values we have long championed at CCIcomms. That belief in strengthening creative ecosystems also inspired the launch of ARTABLE.CLUB, our new initiative offering one-to-one strategic consulting for artists, cultural entrepreneurs and creative professionals. In a sector evolving faster than ever, we wanted to create a space where people could access practical advice, honest conversations and strategic direction, regardless of where they are in their professional journey. The conversations around accessibility, sustainability and innovation continued throughout Art Basel week, where our team was on the ground visiting Art Basel, LISTE, Africa Basel, Photo Basel and Basel Social Club. Beyond reconnecting with clients and collaborators, it was a pleasure to support FOLLOW.ART's Graduate Support Programme in collaboration with VOLTA Art Fairs, demonstrating how thoughtful digital infrastructure can help artists build lasting professional relationships beyond the exhibition itself. Across our client portfolio, we have been fortunate to help amplify stories that matter. From Beck & Eggeling's powerful Art from War to War exhibition exploring memory and resilience, to The Merchant House's thoughtful Fragments exhibition in Amsterdam, we have continued bringing important cultural narratives to international audiences through strategic communications. We're equally proud to witness FOLLOW.ART surpass 3,000 members across more than 100 countries, while continuing to lead important conversations around artistic sustainability, professional networking and micro-patronage. It is encouraging to see digital innovation increasingly recognised not simply as a technological advancement, but as an essential part of supporting creative careers. Beyond the arts, our work with World Wellness Weekend reminds us that communication has the power to unite communities far beyond a single sector. Celebrating ten years of a movement now spanning 187 countries demonstrates how purpose-driven storytelling can inspire collective action on a truly global scale. Looking back, what stands out most isn't the number of campaigns or media placements—although we are incredibly proud of the international visibility achieved for our clients. It's the relationships we have strengthened, the founders and organisations we have supported, and the growing community of people working towards more resilient, inclusive and sustainable creative and wellbeing ecosystems. Thank you to every client, collaborator, journalist and partner who has trusted us this quarter. Your work continues to inspire ours, and we are excited for everything still to come in the second half of the year! Warm regards, Christina Ioannou Founder & Director, CCIcomms